V mount battery power plate turns a single professional V-mount battery into a compact power distribution center for your camera rig. Whether you’re powering a mirrorless camera, external recorder, monitor, lights or charging USB devices on set, a good power plate makes your kit more flexible, safer, and more professional.
What is a V mount battery power plate?
A V-mount plate (also called a V-lock plate or V-mount power plate) is a bracket that accepts V-mount batteries and provides multiple output ports (D-Tap/P-Tap, barrel jacks, USB and increasingly USB-C PD). Therefore, accessories can draw power without separate batteries. Plates may be purely mechanical (mount only) or include active electronics for regulated outputs, switches, fuses, and charging features.
Why do you need one?
🟢Longer runtime & hot-swap: Use high-capacity V-mount batteries to extend shoot times and swap batteries without shutting down a rig.
🟢Power many devices from one source: Run monitors, wireless receivers, lights, recorders, and charge phones from the same battery.
🟢Cleaner rig & fewer adapters: Eliminates messy stacks of consumer USB chargers and barrel adapters on the camera.
What common ports does it feature and what do they do?
D-Tap / P-Tap (14.8V unregulated or battery voltage): Universal V-mount battery power plate features this port. It is standard for powering monitors, on-camera lights, and camera power cables. Many plates have multiple D-Tap outputs.
Barrel DC outputs (7.2V, 8V, 12V, 15V): Regulated outputs for devices that need a specific voltage.
USB / USB-C PD: Charge phones, wireless mics, or power smaller accessories; PD ports can even supply higher wattages for laptops or USB-PD capable cameras.
Integrated charging/input: Some plates let you charge the attached V-battery from an external power source while still supplying outputs.
How to choose the best V-mount battery power plate?
To get the best V mount battery plate, you need to consider key factors, including power output requirements, physical compatibility, output ports, build quality, and budget.
👉 Power Output Requirements: Check what voltage your equipment needs (typically 12V, 15V, or variable). Ensure the plate can handle your total power draw (measured in watts). Look for multiple output options if you need to power several devices simultaneously
👉 Physical Compatibility: Physical compatibility is equally important for a successful setup. The power plate must fit properly with your camera rig, monitor mount, or equipment system, so check the mounting options available, such as 15mm rod mounts, cheese plate compatibility, or specific camera cage integration. Consider the overall size and weight of the plate, as this will affect your rig's balance and portability, especially for handheld or gimbal work.
👉 Output Connections: The variety and quality of output connections will determine how versatile your power plate becomes. Look for plates that offer D-Tap or P-Tap outputs for accessories, USB ports for smaller devices like wireless transmitters, XLR 4-pin outputs for professional equipment, and various DC barrel jack sizes for different devices. Some modern plates even include wireless charging pads for phones or other compatible devices.
👉 Build Quality & Features: Build quality and smart features can make a significant difference in professional use. Choose plates with sturdy construction that can withstand field conditions, LED battery level indicators for monitoring power status, and built-in protection against overcurrent and short circuits. Quick-release mechanisms are valuable for fast battery swaps during shoots, while smart power management features can help optimize battery life and prevent damage to connected equipment.
👉 Budget Considerations: Budget considerations will help narrow your choices, with basic functional plates starting around $100-300, while professional plates with multiple outputs and advanced features can range from $300-800 or more. Remember to factor in the cost of compatible V-mount batteries when planning your total investment, and consider your specific use case, whether it's powering cameras, monitors, lighting equipment, or a combination of devices.
How to use V mount battery plate: Tips for setup and maintenance
💡Mount the plate where it won't block screens or airflow; many plates rotate or fold for access.
💡Use the correct cables (D-Tap to camera dummy batteries, barrel jack sizes) — never force mismatched plugs.
💡Turn off outputs when not in use; use on/off switches or the plate’s power switch to avoid draining batteries between takes.
💡Use the right battery chemistry & voltage: V-mount standards are typically 14.4–14.8V nominal; mixing incompatible batteries can damage equipment.
💡Prefer plates with fuses or current-limiters: They isolate accessory faults from the camera and are life-saving when a short occurs.
💡Keep contacts clean: Wipe battery contacts with isopropyl alcohol occasionally and inspect cables for wear.
